Vocational training skills matter for children with Down syndrome because they can help them move towards independence. Photo: Segi University
It is crucial for parents of children with Down syndrome (DS) to begin educating their kids about puberty at an early age. This proactive approach ensures that special needs children are well-prepared for the physical and emotional changes that come with adolescence, says consultant developmental paediatrician Dr Rajini Sarvananthan.
“Children with DS may not always follow the same stages of development as other girls. For example, menses starts when breast development is more advanced in most girls, but for girls with DS, breast development may be later. So it is important to have conversations about puberty by around eight years old or earlier if parents notice any physical changes like body odour, hair growth and early breast development,” said Dr Rajini during Alumni Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation’s (AKDSF) talk, “Supporting Young People with Down Syndrome through Puberty and Adolescence”, in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, recently.
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Equipping special needs kids
Vocational training skills matter for children with Down syndrome because they can help them move towards independence. Photo: Segi University
Educating children with Down syndrome about sexual abuse empowers them to recognise inappropriate behaviour and assert boundaries. Photo: Firas Fathullah
— FIRAS FATHULLAH
‘Children with special needs must be adequately prepared for the physical and emotional changes of adolescence,’ says Dr Rajini. Photo: Dr Rajini Sarvananthan
DR RAJINI SARVANANTHAN
Football coach Sunny Shalesh (second from right) believes that teaching boys with Down syndrome how to play football enhances their physical abilities and helps them develop essential life skills. Photo: Nurlina Jumali
— NURLINA JUMALI
